About us

Elena Schreiner

Elena has been owner and lead teacher of the Peanut Gallery Playschool since it began as an afternoon play group for 12 to 18 month olds in January of 2005. Originally from New York, Elena relocated to Portland in 1997. She and her husband, Keith, moved into the Cully neighborhood in 2002 and a year later, welcomed their daughter, Nova.

Elena holds an undergraduate degree in fine art and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Early Childhood Education.

Jennifer McIlhenny

Since 2011, Jennifer has brought her open heart, creative mind, and endless love of young children with her to work as a lead teacher. A Portland area native, Jennifer lives with her husband, Todd and two children, Isabel and Caden.

Jennifer holds degrees in journalism and graphic design, but has clearly found her calling in early childhood education.

Leah Bandstra

Leah found her way to the Peanut Gallery Playschool first as a parent of two Peanuts. When her youngest graduated, we could not bear to let her go and hired her on as an assistant teacher, thus confirming a passion for being in the classroom.

With degrees in Chemistry and Oceanography, Leah brings her passion for science and learning through experimentation. She is currently working towards earning her license to teach middle and high school science.

Amelia Walsh

For the past two years, Amelia has gifted us with her passion for self-expression, creativity and social consciousness. Through her eyes, children see themselves celebrated for their uniqueness and their inclusion of others.

With a degree in biology and studio art, Amelia's background in scientific inquiry and artistic expression makes for a magical combination in the classroom.